Regional External Engagement Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead United Nations agency focused on delivering a world where every pregnancy is intended, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and territories, working to ensure that every individual has access to reproductive health services and the ability to make informed choices about their bodies and futures. The organization is committed to advancing the rights of women and girls, promoting gender equality, and addressing the challenges posed by demographic changes. UNFPA's mission is guided by the principles of human rights and the belief that every person should have the opportunity to lead a healthy and fulfilling life. The organization employs thousands of staff members worldwide, dedicated to achieving its transformative goals and responding to the complex global environment.

Job Overview:
The Regional External Engagement Specialist will be based at the Latin America and Caribbean Regional Office and will work under the supervision of the Resource Mobilization Advisor, with a dotted line to the Communications Advisor. This role is pivotal in linking partnerships, resource mobilization, and communications to raise awareness and advocate for UNFPA's transformative results. The Specialist will drive initiatives to garner stakeholder support, strengthen partnerships with both traditional and non-traditional donors, particularly in the public sector and international financial institutions, and raise non-core funds in the Latin America and Caribbean region. The position requires a proactive approach to identifying strategic opportunities and developing tailored outreach plans to mobilize resources effectively. The Specialist will also prepare various communications products aimed at external stakeholders, ensuring that UNFPA's mission and achievements are effectively communicated and promoted.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will support the implementation of a regional plan that integrates partnerships, resource mobilization, and communications grounded in programmatic priorities. Key responsibilities include identifying strategic opportunities for resource mobilization, developing outreach plans, and building quality partnerships in the public and multilateral sectors. The Specialist will prepare communications products such as briefing materials, concept notes, talking points, newsletters, and social media posts. They will identify and engage high-level supporters to amplify UNFPA's brand story and work on campaigns that align with both UNFPA's and influencers' interests. The role also involves supporting the design and operationalization of Innovative Finance Mechanisms to catalyze funding for UNFPA priorities, leading donor visibility efforts, and liaising with HQ and Country Offices to leverage synergies. The Specialist will guide Country Offices on partnership strategies and reporting, share best practices, and serve as a member of the UN regional partnership/communications network. Additionally, they will draft, monitor, and evaluate key performance indicators for resource mobilization and communications, and support the organization of regional stakeholder events.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s level or equivalent) in International Relations, Political Science, Business Administration, Social Sciences, Marketing, Communications, or a related field. A minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible professional experience at the national or international level in development work, with a focus on partnerships and resource mobilization, is required. Experience in donor mapping, management, outreach, and communications is essential, along with excellent negotiation skills, advocacy, and public speaking abilities. The ability to write clearly and concisely is crucial, as is the initiative and sound judgment to work harmoniously with diverse teams.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree, preferably at the master’s level or equivalent, in fields such as International Relations, Political Science, Business Administration, Social Sciences, Marketing, Communications, or other related disciplines. This educational background is essential to understand the complexities of international development, resource mobilization, and effective communication strategies.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible professional experience in development work, particularly in partnerships and resource mobilization. This experience should include donor mapping, management, and outreach, as well as external relations and communications. Previous experience with multilateral or international organizations is advantageous, as is a proven track record in advocacy and public speaking.

Languages:
Fluency in both Spanish and English, both written and spoken, is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in other official UN languages, particularly French and/or Portuguese, is considered desirable and may enhance a candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other applicable benefits. UNFPA promotes a work environment that reflects values of gender equality, diversity, integrity, and a healthy work-life balance. The organization is committed to gender parity and encourages applications from women, individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities to support their participation in the recruitment process. UNFPA does not charge any fees in connection with the application or recruitment process.